FBC: Firebreak - The Unexpected Multiplayer FPS Hit

When Remedy, renowned for crafting exceptional single-player narratives in third-person games, announced their venture into multiplayer with *Control*, skepticism was inevitable. But *FBC: Firebreak*, a three-player PvE first-person multiplayer shooter set six years after the events of *Control*, dispelled those doubts swiftly. This game stands out as a breath of fresh air in the crowded genre of online shooters, offering a unique blend of originality and eccentricity. Unlike many of its peers, *Firebreak* doesn't demand a hefty time commitment. As game director Mike Kayatta succinctly put it, "We're not about daily check-ins. We're not interested in monthly grinds. We don't want to give anybody a second job." A sentiment that resonates deeply with gamers tired of endless grinds.

*FBC: Firebreak* is a cooperative FPS designed for flexibility, allowing you to dive in for a quick 20-minute session or extend your playtime for hours. The game keeps things exciting with unlockable Perks and new character combinations. You step into the shoes of volunteer first responders within The Oldest House, armed with an array of bizarre weapons. These characters, ranging from secretaries to rangers, are essentially considered expendable by the Federal Bureau of Control. But what exactly is your mission? You're tasked with tackling crises when things go awry within this mysterious setting.

FBC: Firebreak - March 2025 Screenshots

8 Images

Upon logging into *Firebreak*, you select a Job (mission), a Crisis Kit (your loadout), and set the Threat Level (difficulty) and Clearance Level, which dictates the number of zones you'll navigate. These zones are separated by containment doors, leading you to the next stage of your Job. The demo showcased the "Paper Chase" mission, set in an ordinary office section of the FBC building, where you and your teammates combat the spreading Hiss. While you can escape at any time, lingering to collect currency for upgrades and new gear increases the challenge of safely returning to HQ.

*FBC: Firebreak* distinguishes itself with its quirky weaponry. From a hand-cranked snowball launcher that can douse fires and sticky-note monsters, to a zapper that can summon lightning storms, the arsenal feels delightfully homemade. Even traditional weapons like machine guns and shotguns are essential, particularly for dealing with those pesky sticky-note monsters. Speaking of which, your main objective in the "Paper Chase" mission is to eradicate these notes before they overwhelm the brutalist building. The climax involves confronting a gigantic sticky-note monster, reminiscent of Sandman from *Spider-Man 3*, but composed of Post-It notes.

Beyond the unusual weapons, *Firebreak* introduces engaging in-universe mechanics. From office supply shelves that replenish ammo to makeshift turrets and stereo speakers that repel the Hiss, the game is rich with inventive gameplay elements. Unlockable Perks add further depth and variety, such as a chance for missed bullets to return to your clip or the ability to extinguish yourself by jumping. Collecting multiple instances of the same Perk enhances its effect, and three of the same Perk can benefit your teammates as well.

Flexibility is key in *Firebreak*; you can play solo, in duos, or as intended with three players. Remedy aims for a lower minimum PC spec while also supporting advanced features like DLSS4 with multi-frame generation, nVidia Reflex, and full ray-tracing. The game will be Steam Deck verified and available on Xbox and PC Game Pass, PlayStation Plus Extra, and Premium from day one. While a post-launch content plan is in the works, the only microtransactions will be for cosmetics.

FBC FirebreakRemedyTBA 2025 Wishlist

Though I haven't played *FBC: Firebreak* firsthand, the game's presentation is compelling. It's clear this is no ordinary multiplayer shooter; it's a refreshing departure from the norm, echoing the days when games were designed for fun without demanding extensive time commitments.